Nile River Cruise

Cruising the river Nile—the longest river in the world—is one of the best ways to discover Egypt. There are other ways to go around, with the use of buses or planes, but cruises are definitely something that offers a different experience to people who really want to experience the place.

You’ll have a variety of routes to choose from, depending on the days that you have for the trip. You can do cruises for three nights or for as long as one to two weeks. The short tours usually operate between Luxor and Aswan. However, if you have longer days for the trip, traveling to Dendera is your best bet, for it will bring you to more spots that will certainly interest you.

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Because most of the historic sites of Egypt could be found along the banks of the River, cruises are best to explore these different places. Aboard Nile cruisers (also known as floating hotels), you will be able to experience the usual hotel atmosphere, but a bit better, because you’ll be travelling on the historical river itself, so needless to say that the trip will be nothing short of exciting.

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When to go on a cruise

The recommended time to take a cruise on the Nile is between the months of October and April. Here are some of the important and historical landmarks that you can see in a Nile cruise; places that you simply must not miss if you wish to learn about the great history of Egypt, spanning more than 500 years.

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Edfu

The temple Edfu is a place is known for its agriculture and pottery, and the Temple of Horus, which has been labeled as one of the world’s best-preserved cult temples in the whole of Egypt.

Esna Temple

The temple of Esna is dedicated to god Khnum, Neith, and Heka. This place is home to many ancient Egyptian structures. The Temple of Khnum, for instance, has impressive artwork, decorations, and symbolisms carved on the walls, halls, doors, etc. The ancient heiroglyphs in the temples alone will already leave a very impressive mark on all visitors.

Dendera Temple Complex

This Greco-Roman complex is dedicated to goddess Hathor. The Temple of Dendera is a place where you’ll find so many shrines, towering pillars, kiosks, stone structures, etc. that will definitely give you a wider perspective on ancient Egypt. This place has history –both literally and figuratively—etched on its walls, and you must not miss it.

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Hatshepsut Temple

The queen Hatshepsut temple is one of Egypt‘s best-preserved monuments. Because Hatshepsut is one of Egypt‘s most distinguished queens, this place holds a great place in history.

Karnak

The temple of Karnak, built more than 2,000 years ago, is definitely one of the most impressive sites you’ll see when you go on a cruise. Dedicated to the triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, this is a huge place (area is about 200 acres) that is visited pilgrims all over the world.

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Luxor

The Temple of Luxor was constructed for the ritual practices for the Festival of Opet. Built by Amenhotep and Ramesses II, this temple is a beautiful place where ancient festivities were held.

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Valley of the Kings

This place is home to the tomb of Tutankhamen and 60 other royal tombs. Robbers have attacked some of the tombs here, except King Tut’s, luckily. Equally eerie and breathtaking, this is a place that you must not miss!